The Erdmann Institute serves to expand the traditional concept of enrollment management by bringing together independent school admission professionals and colleagues to examine ways to strengthen enrollment and enhance the overall promotion of their schools. Founded on the principals of inclusivity and collaboration, The Erdmann Institute seeks to grow the field of admission by providing a non-competitive and supportive environment focused on problem solving and strategic planning.

Tommy Adams | Director

Tommy Adams is the current head of school at Grosse Pointe Academy (MI) and has over 20 years of experience in independent school admission. A graduate of Avon Old Farms in Connecticut and the son of a former head of school, Tommy received his bachelor's degree from Roanoke College in Virginia as well as a master's of science in Education with a focus on Educational Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania.

Tommy has been a regular presenter at national events, such as TABS and The Enrollment Management Association Annual Meeting, is a current member of the ASSIST School Retention Task Force, and was a long time Fellow at The Essex Institute.

I worked closely with Tommy Adams in his role as a Director of Admission at Mercersburg Academy. I have yet to encounter an admission professional as skilled and strategic as Tommy. He has a unique connection with kids, balanced with deep knowledge of the admission process. He knows the value of simultaneously marketing the school and communicating institutional attachment to prospective families. There could be no better mentor for aspiring or experienced admissions professionals than Tommy Adams.

— Clair Ward, Head of School, Valley School of Ligonier

Having known Tommy Adams for nearly 20 years as a respected colleague and good friend, I can think of no finer successor to our beloved David Erdmann.

— Cammie Bertram, Founder and President of The Bertram Group, LLC.

Quentin McDowell | Assistant Director

Quentin McDowell is currently the Assistant Head of School for Enrollment at Mercersburg Academy (PA) and has worked as a teacher, coach, and administrator in independent schools for the past 12 years. Quentin is a regular presenter at national conferences (TABS, IECA, and The Enrollment Management Association). A graduate of Holderness School in New Hampshire, Quentin started his professional career in coaching education as an Education Program Coordinator at the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA). A graduate of Muhlenberg College (PA), he also holds a master's degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from George Washington University.

Other Staff

The Erdmann Institute will feature some of the best independent school minds in the country, including at least one representative from both The Enrollment Management Association and TABS. Guest presenters, which vary each year, may include current heads of school, deans of enrollment from higher education, experts in independent school financial aid, or one of a myriad of other professionals that have much to add to the enrollment conversation.